Across Minnesota, Take a Mom Fishing Weekend returns May 9–10, 2026. During this weekend, moms can fish for free – no license required – making it easy to get outside, enjoy the lake, and spend time together.
There is no better place to tackle this challenge than Lake Vermilion!
Join the Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge
The Minnesota DNR, Student Angler Organization, and Women Anglers of Minnesota are hosting the Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge – a free, virtual event happening all weekend.
You can find all the details and sign up here:
👉 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
How it works
The challenge runs from Midnight Saturday, May 9 to 11:59 p.m. Sunday, May 10
All you need to do:
- Catch a fish (any species, any size)
- Snap a photo
- Share it in the Facebook group
That’s it. Catch and release or keep it for dinner. Just follow Minnesota fishing regulations.
Every mom who posts a photo during the weekend is entered into a random drawing for prizes – including gift cards and more. Whether it’s your first fish or your fifth, you’ve got the same chance to win.
Want to brush up before the weekend?
Leading up to the event, Women Anglers of Minnesota will host free virtual fishing tips and webinars in the Facebook group. It’s a great way to pick up a few pointers, or just get excited for the weekend.
Make a weekend of it on Lake Vermilion
If you’ve been thinking about a spring getaway, this is a great reason to plan one. Early-season fishing and a chance to celebrate Mother’s Day in a way that’s a real keeper.
Whether it’s a quiet morning on the lake, a shore lunch, or just time together outdoors – it all counts. And who knows… you might even catch dinner – just be sure to let your family do the cooking.
